Newstrack

KLM enhances inflight entertainment

EAW Staff - Mumbai

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is renewing and extending its range of personal inflight entertainment aboard its intercontinental fleet. During the coming three months, passengers will be able to use the texting/email function of the inflight entertainment system free of charge. As of September, the range of audio and video programs will be extended substantially.

The KLM personal inflight entertainment system is available to all World Business Class and Economy Class passengers aboard KLM's Boeing 777s and Airbus A330s. The system is currently also being installed in the World Business Class (WBC) cabins of KLM's Boeing 747 fleet. In the fall, KLM will also begin installing this innovative personal inflight entertainment system in both the WBC and Economy Class cabins aboard its MD-11 fleet.

To promote use of the system's texting/email function, passengers will be given free access to this service in August, September, and October. This service normally costs US$ 2.50 per message.

Effective September 1, existing audio and video programs will be extended with a wide variety of new films, games, popular series, and documentaries. New categories of music and more CDs will also be available via the jukebox function. A further addition to the personal video program is that passengers will now be able to view the promotional video for the KLM AirCares charity program on their own screen at any given moment.

In addition, KLM will introduce four new programs on September 1: language lessons, audio books, background information about flying and a business program.

Passengers will have access to beginners' courses in 23 languages, supplied by Berlitz World Traveller. Passengers can learn a new language based on language they are familiar with. The courses are presented in an audio-visual format in an entertaining and interactive manner. The course includes exercises, tests, and games. Every lesson ends with a performance score.

KLM's new audio Books option is in line with the growing popularity of this form of entertainment option. The 'audio book library' will open in September with three English books and will be gradually extended thereafter.

The About Your Flight program gives passengers audio-visual insight into all aspects of flying. The program is interesting for experienced travellers, as well as passengers who are afraid of flying. Topics include aerodynamics, take-off and landing procedures and turbulence.

The new B-Wise program is specially aimed at business travellers, and offers insights into the complex world of global business. The program also looks at cultural and business customs and protocol in various countries.